Author: Thomas Avery

When I first started working on kitchen designs, I didn’t think much about toe kicks. But as I spent more time in the field, I realized how crucial they are. Toe kicks are the spaces at the bottom of cabinets that allow us to stand comfortably without bumping into them. If you’ve been wondering about the right height for your toe kicks, you’re not alone. It can make a big difference in your comfort and how functional your kitchen or bathroom feels. In this article, I’ll walk you through what toe kicks are, why their height matters, and how to…

When I remodeled my kitchen last year, I chose deep espresso cabinets. I loved their richness, but I quickly realized they made the room feel darker than I expected. That’s when I started experimenting with color pairings to lift the space without losing the bold look I wanted. If you’re working with dark cabinets, black, espresso, navy, or charcoal, you’re probably wondering which colors can bring the right contrast and balance. Picking the right shades for your walls, backsplash, counters, and floors makes a huge difference. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the top color schemes that work beautifully…

When I started my kitchen remodel, I thought choosing cabinets would be simple. I assumed it was just about picking a finish and hardware, but I quickly realized there’s more to it. The terms “inset” and “overlay” kept popping up, and at first, I wasn’t sure what they meant. After visiting showrooms and seeing both options in person, I was surprised by how much they impacted the kitchen’s layout, storage, and overall feel. Each style offers distinct advantages in both appearance and function. If you’re unsure which style works best for your kitchen, this blog will help. I’ve broken down…

Every year, around late summer, I find myself eyeing my storage bins filled with pumpkins, warm-toned leaves, and cozy throw blankets. It always brings up the same question: When can you start decorating for fall? I know some people love to wait until the weather cools off, while others jump in the moment August ends. For me, it’s all about finding that sweet spot where my home starts to feel warm, inviting, and in tune with the season. In this blog, I’ll share when I like to start decorating, what signs I look for, and how you can time your…

Ever stood in front of an interior door, paintbrush in hand, and wondered, am I doing this right? I’ve been there. A freshly painted door can totally change how a room feels, but if you skip a step or choose the wrong finish, you’ll notice every brush mark and chip. I’ve painted more doors than I can count. Some turned out smooth and solid, others taught me what not to do. If you’re looking for clear, simple rules that actually work, you’re in the right place. This guide breaks it all down so you can get it right the first time,…

White cabinets are a classic and versatile choice for any kitchen, providing a fresh and clean backdrop that pairs well with many design elements. When selecting the right backsplash, it’s important to enhance the overall visual of the space and bring in elements that complement the white cabinetry. I’ve spent time finding a variety of backsplash ideas that can elevate the look of your kitchen, from sleek and modern to classic and cozy options. In this guide, I’ll walk you through several backsplash ideas that work beautifully with white cabinets, giving you inspiration to create a space that is both…

I remember standing in my living room, staring at that giant blank wall, trying to decide if I should use paint or wallpaper. I’d used paint before, but wallpaper had all these cool textures and patterns I couldn’t stop thinking about. If you’re in the same boat, stuck scrolling through ideas and second-guessing, you’re not alone. In this guide, I’ll share what I learned and the stuff I wish someone had told me sooner. From design and durability to cost, installation, and even the DIY-versus-pro debate, I’ve got you covered. Redoing just one wall or going all in? This will…

When I opened my first retail space, I didn’t think much about the walls. But once the furniture was in and the signs were up, I realized the beige walls just didn’t match the style or atmosphere I wanted. A solid paint job completely changed the space, making it feel clean, refreshed, and business-ready. If you’re considering painting your commercial space, I’ve been through the same process. It’s one of those upgrades that seems easy until you start gathering estimates. One of the first things I wanted to figure out was: how much is this going to cost per square…

When I replaced my old storm door last spring, I kept running into the word “brickmold” and had no idea what it meant. If you’re in the same spot, you’re not alone. This article breaks it down simply and clearly. You’ll learn: What brickmold is and why it matters The different materials that are used Tips for Installing and Maintaining Brickmold We’ll also cover the common types, materials, and how it’s installed. I had to replace the back door on my old house last fall, and I had no clue what brickmold was. Turns out, it made a big difference…

When I was remodeling my kitchen, I thought picking a stool would be easy. It turns out that counter height vs. bar height is a whole thing. I ordered the wrong size stool once. Sat down, knees up to my chest. Not fun. That’s when I learned the difference between the two, and trust me, the right height makes a big difference in how your space feels and works. This post will help you understand the real difference between counter height and bar height, what they measure, where they fit, and why choosing the right one makes all the difference.…